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Scent at Arms Museum calls up best of Christmas memories
By Laurie Esposito Harley
YOUNGSTOWN
As one enters the Arms Family mansion, it is the scent of Christmas that is first to register. Even when surrounded by antique bulbs, period Santa Clauses, and intricate snowflakes, it is the subtle fragrance of cinnamon that brings to mind the merriest of holidays.
The annual Memories of Christmas Past holiday spectacular, in its ninth year, opened this weekend at the 1905 Arts and Crafts-style mansion on Wick Avenue. Every year, 4,000 to 6,000 locals self-tour the seven lower-level rooms of Olive and Wilford Arms’ “Greystone.”
“People connect with the museum,” says Leann Rich, external relations manager of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society. “Lots of memories come back. It’s very nostalgic.”
Rich notes that many of the pieces remind her of Christmas decorations that her grandmother made. That anyone’s grandmother could have made – and probably did.
For instance, in the library stands a tree covered by handmade beaded ornaments. Styrofoam balls have been wrapped in thread or fabric and designs were created using sequins and beads. “I like it personally, because my grandma used to make those and give them to us,” recalls Rich. “When you see a whole tree decorated with them, it’s breathtaking.”
Also in the library is a framed piece of vintage jewelry designed in a Christmas tree shape. Sparkling gems, antique pearls, and shades of gold and silver form the tree, complete with a poinsettia brooch star on top.
On a wicker table in the solarium lay children’s books, including “Frosty the Snowman,” as if in preparation for a Christmas Eve bedtime reading. Antique toys are arranged under the patriotic-decorated tree in the sitting room, including drums, airplanes and a blimp. Each room contains a myriad of unique decorations, which like every year, are all new to this year’s exhibit.
All tours are self-guided, and visitors may explore each room as many times as they would like. Guides are stationed in each room to answer questions, if possible. During the weekends, the exhibit tends to be especially busy.
Even younger children may enjoy the exhibit, particularly with the scavenger hunt that encourages them to find three elves in each room, along with other interesting and unique items, such as a pig pulling a sleigh, a hot air light bulb or the Statue of Liberty.
The basement of the Arms Mansion has been transformed for the holidays as well. Children, who have had to keep their hands to themselves through the tour, will be happy with the hands-on activities. They can make ornaments for their own Christmas tree, paper-chain garland or an antique greeting card.
Memories of Christmas Past runs through Jan. 8 from noon to 4 p.m., except on Mondays and holidays. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for senior citizens, $5 for children ages 3-18, and free for those under 3.
This weekend and next Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, visitors can bring canned goods to receive half-price admission. Canned goods will be donated to Second Harvest Food Bank of the Mahoning Valley.